Dave Jessen
Lead Product Developer and Production Manager · Wasatch Surfcraft Company
Heber City, UT
In My Own Words
Innovative product development leader with 25+ years of experience engineering and manufacturing premium action sports equipment. Proven track record of transforming concepts into market-ready products while optimizing production processes. Expert in snowboard, splitboard, powsurfer, and skateboard design, manufacturing, and brand development with comprehensive knowledge spanning the entire product lifecycle.
Core Skills • Advanced Product Engineering & Design • Production Process Optimization • Manufacturing Leadership & Team Development • Supply Chain Management • CAD/CAM Expertise (AutoCAD) • New Product Innovation & R&D • Sustainable Manufacturing Practices • Quality Assurance & Testing
Work Experience
Lead Product Developer and Production Manager
Wasatch Surfcraft Company2024 – Present
• Spearhead product development strategy and manufacturing operations for premium board sports equipment • Implement innovative production techniques that enhance product performance while reducing material waste • Optimize supply chain processes reducing lead times by 30% and improving vendor relationships • Utilize advanced CAD systems to design next-generation boards with enhanced performance characteristics • Oversee quality control processes ensuring all products meet rigorous performance standards
Head of USA Production
Kemper Snowboards2022 – 2023
• Led all domestic manufacturing operations for iconic snowboard brand • Redesigned production workflows resulting in 25% increase in manufacturing efficiency • Implemented new quality control protocols reducing product defects by 40% • Collaborated with design team to bring 5 new product lines to market • Managed production team of 15 and maintained strict adherence to production schedules
Owner, designer, builder
Reason Board Co.2016 – 2022
• Founded and operated successful boutique board manufacturing company • Designed, engineered, and personally built premium handcrafted snowboards and skateboards • Created proprietary manufacturing techniques that improved product durability by 35% • Developed and executed comprehensive brand strategy including marketing, sales, and distribution • Established reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design in niche market
Mechanic
Mark's Outdoor Sports2014 – 2016
Kawasaki and Polaris Dealer. Service Technician, new machine assembly.
Quality Control / manufacturing engineer
Voile Manufacturing2004 – 2014
• Led R&D initiatives for splitboard technology advancement • Implemented quality control systems that reduced warranty claims by 60% • Created employee training programs that improved production efficiency by 45% • Represented company at major industry trade shows, contributing to 30% sales growth • Collaborated with design team on innovative product improvements and new product development
Repair Tech/sales, product research
The BoardRoom Inc.1998 – 2003
Managed back shop, tuning and repairs. Aided in hardgoods buying.
Production Technician
Never Summer Snowboards Mfg1999 – 2002
• Contributed to manufacturing processes of premium snowboards • Gained comprehensive understanding of advanced snowboard construction techniques • Assisted with quality control and production improvements • Developed technical expertise in materials and construction methods
